Easy Abstract Painting

 Step by step guide on how to make an abstract painting. Before making an abstract painting check elements like layout, composition, texture, color

Abstract art is all about exploring shapes, forms, and colors, providing a means to express oneself creatively through a combination of various elements like line, texture, pattern, color, and process. 

These components should be unified and harmonious, much like in a musical composition. Abstract art is among the simplest and most enjoyable types of art to create, as it is expressive, flexible, and appropriate for artists of all ages.

The goal of abstract art is to create a unique visual setting that is distinct from perfect representations of reality. Rather than attempting to accurately depict the visual world, abstract art employs shapes, colors, forms, and gestural marks to achieve its impact. 

Acrylic paints make abstract art easy, particularly for beginners, who can use some quick tricks to create artwork in just a few hours. Abstract art is quite forgiving, and beginners need not be intimidated by a paintbrush. 

Random splashes and the use of fingers can also be employed to create an abstract painting. However, before embarking on any abstract artwork, it is essential to understand a few key points to ensure that the finished product is amazing.

Layout

Decide the layout of the painting. Are you currently planning to get any pattern at the painting?  Will there be repetitive patterns? 

It could be anything from circles, triangles, dots, swirls, curls, raindrops, and traces and a lot more.

Composition

Decide how and where the items will be put, what's its form and size. Get a feel of how piece is going to be set on the canvas.

Texture

There are a variety of methods to create texture in your painting. Texture can definitely create an abstract painting stand out. 

You might even use several mediums to achieve unique looks. Just ensure you maintain the texture feel, that it is consistent.

Color

First thing is to decide your color palette. Pick just a few colors and be imaginative. This will help you rather than getting lost in colors.

Consider mixing colors and producing new ones rather than directly using them. Even if you simply start with primary colors, you can make number of colors out of it. There is no limitation on colors but keep it minimal.

Variation

Instead of giving a monotone pattern, you may add some variation to the painting. You may highlight with texture at some focal point areas while leaving the other areas as flat. You may even try with two texture in one painting. 

Below are step by step instructions about the best way best to generate a simple abstract painting with masking tape.

Materials:

  • White canvas to paint
  • Acrylic Paints - Any brand  will do, however favor the tubes or fluid not the body because it requires some time to dry.
  • Masking Tape - The tape is used to direct the paint to absolutely straight lines, it's very straightforward to use
  • Brushes - Flat brushes(small and moderate size)
  • Pens - for highlights
  • Scissors or knife may be more helpful if you would like to cut the tape to thinner strips, making darker white lines

1. First Pick Your Color Scheme

When looking for color ideas and inspiration for your abstract art, there are various approaches you can take. One way is to experiment with different background colors to see how they interact with other colors. Another option is to use a color wheel as a reference.

A color wheel can help you explore different color schemes and combinations, such as monochromatic, analogous, complementary, split complementary, triadic, or tetradic. Each of these color schemes can be used to create unique and interesting effects in your abstract artwork.

2. Decide on a image of your dimensions

I prefer working on an A4 size canvas. Instead of placing the center point in the center of the canvas, I choose a different spot. Then, I draw a few lines across the canvas and cover them with masking tape.

This technique helps to block specific areas from getting painted. To prevent paint from leaking under the tape, I press it firmly onto the canvas. This gives me an idea of how the final design will look.

3. Use a broad brush

Paint the canvas with elongated regions of every color. Paint above the tape at a color scheme you have chosen. Below the tape, the background will stay unchanged and the paint coating will be visible only from the openings between tapes.

4. Remove Masking Tape

When the paint has dried, carefully remove the masking tape. There's something gratifying about removing masking tape out of a canvas and showing that the sharp, white lines under.

Whenever there's bleeding in which the paint ran underneath the tape, then it can be mended by painting white paint.

Masking tape can be used to make several geometric pattern, angular lines, conical shapes and a lot more. The taped lines can allow you to paint. 

Tape will make sure your painting has sharp, clear shapes and lines. Do not be concerned if you chance to get paint on the painter's tape.

Abstract Painting Ideas

Most abstract layouts are arbitrary. The purpose is to make images which are not representative of fact. If you're unsure what precisely you would like to make, here are a few things to keep in mind before beginning.

  • Experiment with different color combinations and see how they interact with each other
  • Play with different textures and patterns to create depth and interest
  • Explore different shapes and forms, such as circles, triangles, and squares
  • Incorporate lines and gestural marks to add movement and energy to the piece
  • Use different tools and techniques, such as palette knives, sponges, and sprays, to create unique effects
  • Take inspiration from nature, such as the colors and patterns of a sunset or the shapes of leaves and flowers
  • Consider incorporating text or other elements, such as collage or mixed media, to add interest and depth to the piece
  • Try working with a limited color palette to create a cohesive and harmonious piece
  • Don't be afraid to make mistakes or take risks.

Take reference

It is fine to have a particular starting point rather than having no reference in any way. The reference may be anything out of your photos, a image from internet or social websites. 

The topic might not be applicable but some little detail from the photograph may provide you a lead.

Pick your attention point

Having a focal point in a painting is crucial for guiding the viewer's eye and creating a sense of visual interest. It doesn't have to be anything recognizable, but it should be an area where the eye can rest or be drawn to.

Placing the focal point off-center is a general practice because it adds visual tension and creates a more dynamic composition. This technique is known as the rule of thirds, which involves dividing the canvas into thirds both horizontally and vertically and placing the focal point at the intersection of these lines.

However, keep in mind that the rule of thirds is not a strict rule, and breaking it can also lead to interesting compositions. Experimentation is key to finding the right balance in your painting.

Trust your gut feel

Look for smaller pieces as  those details will cause attractive layout. Abstract painting isn't only splashing colors and messing around it, paying attention to small details will make the art balanced and provide a sense of 'complete'!

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